Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo spoke to the media today. Here are some of the topics covered.
Health Updates:
Paul Sewald threw a 17 pitch bullpen Wednesday. The next step for him is to face live hitters, but Lovullo did not specify when. Usually Sewald throws bullpen with two days rest in between, so if that happens on Saturday, then clearly he will not pitch again in the regular season. His availability for a potential postseason roster spot is TBD
Ryne Nelson followed up a 28 pitch bullpen by playing catch and feels good. Lovullo said that they would let the reporters know Nelson’s status with regards to activation and intended usage, (starting or relieving) within the next 24 hours.
Contention for the Wild Card
While the narrative the last few days has been about the position the D-backs have put themselves in by not winning every game, Lovullo took a different tack. After informing the press corps that he managed a good seven hour sleep, he put a positive spin on the teams current situation.
“We embrace this role and situation. We’ve played these types of games all year long. We’ve put ourselves in this position by playing really good baseball. We have won 87 games because we are a good baseball team.”…